Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri today said that credible and responsible media forms the very foundation of a strong democracy. He was presiding over the valedictory session of the two-day All India Meet of the Confederation of Newspaper and News Agency Employees’ Organizations, held in Chandigarh.
The meet was organised by The Tribune Employees’ Union. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Chief Minister said that print media continues to be synonymous with credibility even in the present times. He said that news impacts every section of society, the administration and the government and since independence, print media has played the role of a vigilant watchdog, guiding society and strengthening democratic values.
He said that even today print media serves as a strong source of constructive feedback. Shri Agnihotri said that the state government accords the top priority to feedback received through the media. Even negative news is viewed positively, with efforts made to identify and remove the causes of shortcomings for public welfare.
He said that media feedback has consistently motivated the state government to bring positive changes in its welfare-oriented policies. The Deputy Chief Minister said that in Himachal, politics of development, welfare and service to the poor is being given priority.
Despite severe financial constraints, the present state government has restored the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) for its employees. He further said that Himachal is the first state in the country to declare around 6,000 destitute children as “Children of the State” under the Mukhya Mantri Sukh-Aashray Scheme and is working in a planned manner to secure their future.
Highlighting the role of media in public welfare initiatives, Shri Agnihotri said that welfare schemes are being given direction based on feedback received from the media. He informed that a comprehensive project costing nearly Rs. 1,000 crore is being prepared to permanently address the drinking water problem in Shimla.
He also shed light on the State’s progress in various sectors, including development and quality higher education. The Deputy Chief Minister urged the media to give prominence to issues related to the interests of Himachal Pradesh. Addressing media representatives from across the country, he elaborated on Himachal Pradesh’s 7.19 per cent share in Chandigarh land and assets.
Apart from this the State’s rightful claim of approximately Rs. 5,000 crore in BBMB projects, as per the 2011 Supreme Court judgment. On the occasion, Shri Agnihotri announced a grant of Rs. one lakh for The Tribune Employees’ Union in recognition of its humanitarian work.
He said that The Tribune group is widely respected in the media world for its impartial journalism. Recalling its journey the Deputy CM said that The Tribune, which began publication from Lahore, later operated from Shimla and is now being published from Chandigarh. He said that the Department of Language, Art and Culture of Himachal Pradesh has acquired the historic Shimla building (Bantony Castle) from where The Tribune was once published and now has established as a museum.
The Deputy Chief Minister also shared memories from his journalistic and political journey and honoured distinguished personalities for their commendable contributions in various fields. Earlier, President of The Tribune Employee's Union Anil Gupta welcomed the Chief Guest and provided detailed information about the event. President of the Confederation of Newspaper and News Agency Employees’ Organisations Ras Bihari, General Secretary M.S. Yadav, General Secretary of The Tribune Employee's Union Ruchi M. Khanna, other office bearers and field media representatives from across the country were present on the occasion.